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Switched On and Connected for a Better Future

17.05.2016 - Information and communication technologies (ICTs) entrepreneurs, start-ups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have a particularly relevant role in ensuring economic growth in a sustainable and inclusive manner.

They are involved in the development of innovative ICT-enabled solutions with a unique potential to make a long-lasting impact in global, regional and national economies and as an important source of new jobs, especially for youth, in the current knowledge economy.

The ICT sector is amongst the most profitable and successful and has revolutionized the way the world communicates. ICT has played a central role in young people’s rise to prominence on a global scale. It has helped them to mobilize and collaborate, and it has given them a voice where before they had none.

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in a statement, “These technologies provide smart solutions to address climate change, hunger, poverty and other global challenges. They are key instruments for providing mobile health care and access to education, empowering women, improving efficiencies in industrial and agricultural production, and safeguarding the environment.”

17 May marks the anniversary of the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention and the creation of the International Telecommunication Union - the United Nations specialized agency for ICTs. In a video message, ITU Secretary-General, Houlin Zhao rallied, “Let us put our resources together to harness the catalytic role of ICTs in achieving sustainable development and delivering on economic growth, social inclusion and environmental balance.”

When the Security Council approaches the final stage of negotiation of a draft resolution the text is printed in blue... What's in Blue helps interested UN readers keep up with what might soon be "in blue".

The Brussels based United Nations Regional Information Centre for Western Europe - UNRIC provides information on UN activities to the countries of the region. It also provides liaison with institutions of the European Union in the field of information. Its outreach activities extend to all segments of society and joint campaigns, projects and events are organized with partners including the EU, governments, the media, NGOs, schools and local authorities.